Plant of the Week - Leptospermum (Tea Tree)

The chilly days of January are brightened by the gorgeous color from the New Zealand Tea Tree (L. lavigatum). This hardy large shrub (or can be trained as a small tree) is a favorite in the bay area landscape. Blooming early and profusely, this drought tolerant shrub provides color when much of the lanscape is lacking this time of year. Drought tolerant and deer resistant, its a good choice for problem areas. Flower colors range from red to pink to white, and the shrub has a very fine texture which makes for a good backdrop for larger textured summer and fall perennials and grasses.